Temples, Houses of the Lord Dotting the Earth
Neil L. Andersen, of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles
Elder Andersen emphasizes the strengthening power of temple attendance in tumultuous times.
Open talk in Gospel LibraryContents
Topics
Understanding the Last Days
Elder Andersen discusses the prophecies about the last days and how they relate to the current state of the world. He emphasizes the importance of remaining faithful amid the turmoil and temptations of the world.
The Lord warned that in the last days, there would be distress among nations, people would “be lovers of their own selves,” “all things [would] be in commotion,” confusion would abound, and “men’s hearts [would] fail them.”
He spoke of a righteous people resisting the deceptions of the adversary, disciplining their faith, thinking celestial, and trusting completely in the Savior Jesus Christ.Key Points:
- The last days will be characterized by turmoil and disbelief.
- Despite these challenges, there will be a covenant people who will remain faithful and eagerly await the Lord's return.
- Can you think of a time when your faith helped you navigate a challenging situation?
- How have you seen the signs of the last days in your own life?
- What steps are you taking to prepare for the Lord's return?
Receiving Strength through Temple Worship
Elder Andersen discusses the blessings that come from worshiping in the temple, including being armed with the power of God, having His name upon us, being watched over by angels, and receiving a fulness of the Holy Ghost.
In His house, we are literally endowed with heavenly power. Our faith in Jesus Christ and our love for Him are confirmed and fortified.
In His holy house, we take His name more completely upon us.
Regularly performing ordinances for our ancestors in the temple brings a sweet and sure confirmation that life continues beyond the veil.Key Points:
- Temple worship strengthens our faith and love for Jesus Christ.
- Through temple worship, we take upon ourselves the name of Christ more completely.
- Performing ordinances for our ancestors confirms the continuity of life beyond the veil.
- How have you felt strengthened by your experiences in the temple?
- Can you share an experience when you felt the power of God in the temple?
- How has doing work for your ancestors affected your perspective on the Plan of Salvation?
The Expansion of Temples Worldwide
Elder Andersen talks about the rapid growth of temples worldwide and the significance of this expansion. He emphasizes the miracles associated with the construction and dedication of these temples.
Have you wondered why the Lord would direct His prophet to now dot the earth with His holy temples?
Across the globe, houses of the Lord are coming closer to us. Why in our day?
Dotting the earth with houses of the Lord is a mighty work and miraculous indication.Key Points:
- The Lord is directing His prophet to build temples all over the world.
- The expansion of temples worldwide is a significant event in our day.
- The construction and dedication of temples are miraculous works.
- How has the construction of a temple near you impacted your life?
- What miracles have you witnessed in the process of temple construction and dedication?
- How do you feel when you think about the growth of temples worldwide?
The Promises of Temple Worship
Elder Andersen shares the promises associated with temple worship, including being armed with God's power, having His name upon us, being watched over by angels, and receiving a fulness of the Holy Ghost.
The temple is literally the house of the Lord. I promise you as you come worthily and prayerfully to His holy house, you will be armed with His power, His name will be upon you, His angels will have charge over you, and you will grow up in the blessing of the Holy Ghost.
The Lord promised, “Every soul who forsaketh his sins and cometh unto me, and calleth on my name, and obeyeth my voice, and keepeth my commandments, shall see my face and know that I am.”Key Points:
- Temple worship comes with divine promises.
- Those who worship in the temple will be blessed with God's power, His name upon them, angelic protection, and a fulness of the Holy Ghost.
- Those who forsake their sins and come unto Christ will see His face and know that He is.
- How have you experienced the promises associated with temple worship in your life?
- Can you share an experience when you felt God's power, His name upon you, angelic protection, or a fulness of the Holy Ghost in the temple?
- How has temple worship helped you come unto Christ and know Him better?
